Concerns over healthcare access for haemophilia patients in Rural Gambia

Concerns over poor healthcare access for haemophilia patients in rural Gambia were raised during the Safe Motherhood and Haemophilia Foundation’s family day at Badala Park Hotel.

Patients, families and health officials highlighted the lack of specialised care in remote areas such as Farafenni, Bansang and Kudang.

A mother from Farafenni blamed the death of her daughter on the absence of a haematologist, while another parent, Ebrima Top, also lost a child to haemophilia.

“There is a clear shortage of healthcare personnel in these communities,” a foundation representative said.

Parents noted that the only haemophilia testing machine is in Banjul, forcing rural patients to travel for diagnosis and medication.

Haemophilia is a genetic bleeding disorder requiring regular clotting factor therapy, often unavailable outside the capital.

Foundation president Vandy Jayah said they are developing a patient ID system to improve case management and treatment access.

The Foundation has also launched a national awareness campaign to improve diagnosis and reduce misconceptions.

Secretary General Josephine Touray said progress has been made, with a haemophilia laboratory now established in Banjul.

She urged regular check-ups and that doctors be informed of the condition before procedures.

Mr Jayah added that haemophilia is inherited: “If the father has the disease, it can be transferred to the mother, and if the mother carries it, the daughter can inherit it.”

The Foundation continues to work with the government and partners to improve care for haemophilia patients across The Gambia.